Manton music students present debut performance

Young musicians presented their debut performance May 23 to the delight of residents and guests at Red Bluff Health Care Center.

More than a dozen students from the Manton music program, who call themselves Manton Bluegrass Kids, ranging from age 8 to 14 have been learning to sing and play a variety of musical instruments. The group is under the direction of several teachers, including 15 year-old Matthew Songmaker who teaches violin and mandolin, Lloyd Raeg, banjo and guitar and Patti Anglin, instructing in vocals and guitar.

The one-hour presentation began with an old bluegrass song titled, "Boil Them Cabbages Down," which included a number of violin and vocal solos.

Nine-year-old Bailey Ferguson has been in the program for three years, she said her favorite part of the event was making people happy.

Many of the residents expressed delight in the production and a desire for the Manton Bluegrass Kids to return soon for another performance.

"These wonderful students have worked hard to prepare for this event," Anglin said, "They will also be performing at 'Bluegrass on the Mountain', June 7 at Cedar Crest Vineyards in Manton."